On Saturday, April 18, 2026, First Lady Dawn Moore hosted more than 100 women at Government House for her third annual “A Women’s Work: Women’s Economic Empowerment Event.”
Created by Foundation for the Preservation of Government House of Maryland with a vision by First Lady Moore, the event celebrates entrepreneurs, executives, creators, and changemakers who build economic power with purpose—expanding pathways to prosperity for themselves and others. It’s designed to inspire and enlighten women about ways to enhance hard and soft skills that impact economic empowerment.
The event kicked off with a sparkling social toast from First Lady Moore, then networking brunch. The program included inspirational messages about turning ideas into solutions and obstacles into momentum—from award recipients CEO & Founder, Salamander Collection Sheila Johnson (Luminary Award), Baltimore Orioles President of Business Operations Catie Griggs (Glass Ceiling Breaker Award); Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women Founder Brenda Brown Rever (Impact Award); and Artist Tawny Chatmon (Vanguard Award).
During the program, Emmy award-winning journalist Marissa Mitchell led a panel discussion on “Living Amendments: Women Reshaping Power, Culture and Capital” —a tribute to a theme dedicated to honoring America’s 250th celebration and the great American women who shaped it.
Other guests include Wanda Durant, First Lady of Baltimore Hana Scott and some of the most influential women in business, politics, and service in the DMV region. Event sponsors include CareFirst and BGE.
For background and context, the Foundation for the Preservation of Government House of Maryland is committed to restoring and preserving Government House to safeguard its historical significance while inspiring and educating through programming that emphasizes children’s mental health, economic empowerment, military families, and art and culture. Programming is designed to bring more Marylanders to Government House, allowing greater connection to this historical beacon.
Excerpts from First Lady’s Speech:
“It’s a beautiful day to celebrate the power of women. As I look around this room, I am truly in awe. This home is filled with trailblazers and architects of change!
And while we all traveled on different journeys to get where we are today—we can stand firm on this powerful truth: When we stand united as women, there’s nothing we can’t achieve.”
“My vision for this event was clear: To create a safe space for women to learn from each other, feel seen and supported, and be inspired to create change.”
“I’ll be honest with you. As a young girl, I never imagined I would be able to have this moment—where I could celebrate and honor some of the most dynamic women I’ve ever met… and even have the pleasure to call many of you friends. It’s my greatest honor to build this space for each of you.”
“Ladies: We all know that women are the backbone of our economy, and the heartbeat of society. Throughout history, we’ve always come together to build our own, grow our own, and defend our own. It’s a legacy that is often overlooked, but can never be erased… And as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we must never forget that this country would not be the same without us or the women who paved the way.”
